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From: mvolo@uncecs.edu (Michael R. Volow)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.ibm.pc.hardware
Subject: Re: Speeding up an XT
Summary: I prefer new motherboard
Message-ID: <1990Oct17.030426.15259@uncecs.edu>
Date: 17 Oct 90 03:04:26 GMT
References: <16345@shlump.nac.dec.com>
Organization: UNC Educational Computing Service
Lines: 22



I believe that replacement motherboards are better than accelerator
cards from the standpoint of compatibility. A fairly cheap way to 
go is the hybrid 80286 motherboard (80286 processor, 8-bit 4.77 bus,
PC keyboard compatibility), of which the Bullet (8, 10, 12 MHz models)
(in Computer Shopper D.P. Computing or Marchand). They cost about
$125-175 plus $50 for memory. They come in 5- and 8-slot models. We
put on in an IBM PC at work (the 10 Hz version) and are very happy
with it. We used the existing 8-bit hd controller and don't mind if
the thruput is not up to AT standards. It's quite speedy on programs
such as Word Perfect 5.1. On the other hand, if you have several 
already-graded  components in your XT (e.g., large HD, high density
floppy drive, VGA card) that could be moved to a '286, 386SX, or 386DX
machine, it make sense to buy a bare bones AT-type machine (motherboard
16 bit HD/FD, Power Supply, fast memory), move the upgraded parts to
the AT, and then sell the XT. I had the latter situation at home with
my IBM PC. After completing the parts swap and sale of the PC, I found
I had moved up to my 386SX for only $300 net! 
-- 
Michael Volow, Psychiatry, Durham VA Med Center, Durham NC 27712
919 286 0411 Ext 6933               mvolo@ecsvax.edu